ENVIRONMENTAL SPECIALIST II (Water Permit Writer) #P0253
ENVIRONMENTAL SPECIALIST II (Water Permit Writer) #P0253
Abingdon, Virginia
Minimum Starting Salary: $48,391 - Negotiable Based on Experience
What you will be doing:
The Department of Environmental Quality, Southwest Regional Office (SWRO) in Abingdon is seeking a qualified candidate to join the Water Permit Team who can be sensitive to public attitudes and concerns while effectively carrying out the agency’s mission. The successful candidate will process Virginia Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (VPDES) and Virginia Water Protection (VWP) permit applications and permit related operation-design submittals in a timely manner in accordance with applicable laws, regulations, and Agency guidance to develop permits and permit decision documents. This position will also conduct compliance site inspections and audits of assigned VWP projects to adequately characterize site conditions and assess permit compliance and construction status; investigate complaints of permitted and unpermitted activity received from the public and other stakeholders; effectively collaborate with permitting, compliance, and enforcement staff to ensure timely and appropriate permit processing and permit non-compliance management; and use databases, GIS, and other available technological tools to track permit application status, permit compliance, inspections, and other information.
Qualifications: Key competencies include knowledge, skills and abilities in the areas of:
- Demonstrated knowledge of fundamental principles of environmental science, engineering, municipal and industrial wastewater treatment theory
- Knowledge or experience in water permit programs (VPDES and VWP) and inspections/compliance programs
- Knowledge or experience with state and federal VPDES and VWP laws; regulations and principles of wetland delineation and mitigation design
- Ability to express complex ideas and concepts clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing
- Demonstrated ability to work effectively, both as a collaborative team member and independently
- Demonstrated ability to strategically manage multiple priorities with strict timeframes
- Prepare and present technical reports to diverse groups
- Computer skills in word processing and GIS/database applications; presentation software a plus
- Valid driver's license is required
Preferred Qualifications:
- Graduation from an accredited university with major course work in a related field is preferred. A combination of education, training, or experience which would demonstrates the above knowledge and skills may substitute for a degree.
- Certification as a Professional Wetland Scientist or as a Soil Scientist is preferred but not required.